We’ve always been fans of that irresistible campfire classic, s’mores, with its gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate sandwiched between crunchy graham crackers. Our S’mores Crack recipe amps up the fun by transforming these flavors into an addictive, shareable treat that’s perfect for parties or lazy weekends.
It’s a simple twist on tradition that packs a punch of nostalgia without the hassle of a fire. We promise this easy recipe will become your go-to for satisfying those sweet cravings in no time.
Ingredients
In our S’mores Crack recipe, we start with a curated selection of ingredients that capture the nostalgic essence of gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, complete with precise measurements and prep notes for effortless preparation.
- Graham crackers: 1 sleeve (about 10 full sheets or 1.5 cups when crushed), used as the base for a sturdy, crunchy foundation—simply crush them into fine crumbs before layering.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), melted in a saucepan to create the caramel-like toffee layer that binds everything together—ensure it’s fully melted for smooth consistency.
- Brown sugar: 1 cup, packed, stirred into the melted butter to form a rich, sweet topping—use light or dark based on your desired depth of flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 2 cups, sprinkled over the hot mixture to melt evenly and deliver that irresistible chocolatey goodness we all crave in S’mores Crack.
- Mini marshmallows: 2 cups, added for their quick-melting texture that creates gooey pockets of delight—opt for fresh ones to avoid any stickiness issues.
- Optional add-ins: ½ cup chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds), incorporated for extra crunch if you want to elevate the texture—add them right before baking for even distribution.
This lineup ensures our S’mores Crack is not only simple to assemble but also packed with the comforting flavors that make it a crowd-pleasing treat.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into assembling our irresistible S’mores Crack—a crunchy, gooey treat that captures the nostalgic essence of campfire favorites—let’s gather the essential tools. These items ensure a smooth preparation process, allowing us to effortlessly combine ingredients like crushed graham crackers and melted chocolate for that perfect balance of textures and flavors.
We recommend the following equipment, organized by category for easy reference:
- Baking Sheet: A standard rimmed baking sheet (approximately 9×13 inches) is crucial for spreading the mixture evenly. This helps create the signature crack-like texture we love in S’mores Crack.
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: Use this to line the baking sheet, preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze. Opt for parchment for a non-stick surface that preserves the gooey marshmallow layer.
- Medium Saucepan: Essential for melting unsalted butter and brown sugar together to form the toffee base. Choose one with a heavy bottom to avoid burning and ensure even heating.
- Mixing Bowl: A large heat-safe bowl for combining ingredients like chocolate chips and marshmallows. This keeps everything organized as we prepare our crave-worthy snack.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the butter-sugar mixture and folding in add-ins. A heat-resistant spatula works best to handle the warm components without melting.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so use a set for ingredients like butter and sugar. This precision helps achieve the ideal sweetness and crunch.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F for baking. Ensure yours has an accurate thermometer to guarantee the S’mores Crack sets properly without overcooking the marshmallows.
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to transition seamlessly from our ingredient list to the step-by-step preparation, making this recipe as straightforward as it is delicious.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to create our delectable S’mores Crack. We’ll break it down simply so you can achieve that perfect blend of crunchy, gooey, and chocolatey goodness in every bite.
Prep Work
Before we begin, we’ll prepare our workspace and ingredients to ensure smooth sailing. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F as mentioned in our equipment section. Next, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy release and cleanup.
Gather and measure the following:
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers (we recommend using a food processor or rolling pin for even crumbs)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes for quicker melting)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (ensure it’s firmly packed for the right sweetness)
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with any optional add-ins like ½ cup chopped nuts if desired. This step sets the foundation for our irresistibly crunchy base.
Cooking the Base
With our prep complete, we move on to cooking the toffee-like base that gives S’mores Crack its addictive texture. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup unsalted butter and stir in 1 cup packed brown sugar using a spatula.
Once the mixture reaches a boil, let it cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring constantly to achieve a smooth, caramelized consistency—watch for a rich, buttery aroma that signals it’s ready. Remove from heat and quickly fold in the prepared graham cracker mixture until fully coated. Press this evenly into the lined baking sheet to form a compact layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the base turns a golden brown and bubbles slightly. This step locks in that satisfying crunch we’ll build upon.
Adding Toppings
Now we add the star elements that evoke classic s’mores flavors, transforming our base into a gooey delight. Immediately after removing the baking sheet from the oven, sprinkle 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot base—they’ll melt into a velvety layer within minutes.
Top with 2 cups mini marshmallows, spreading them out for uniform coverage. If you want extra indulgence, we suggest sprinkling a handful more chocolate chips or nuts here. Return the sheet to the oven for 2-3 minutes under the broiler (set to low) just until the marshmallows puff up and turn lightly golden and irresistibly gooey. Keep a close eye to prevent burning—this creates the perfect melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Cooling and Setting
To finish our S’mores Crack, we need to let it cool and set for the best texture. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and place it on a wire rack.
Allow it to cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to fully harden—the result is a snappy, chocolate-infused treat that’s easy to break into pieces. Once set, use a sharp knife to cut or break into servings, ready for sharing at your next gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our S’mores Crack even more convenient for gatherings or busy days, we can prepare it in advance without compromising its irresistible gooey texture and crunchy base. This approach allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a snack that’s just as delightful when served later.
Preparing Ahead
Follow these steps to assemble S’mores Crack up to 24 hours in advance:
- Step 1: After baking the toffee base as outlined in our instructions, let it cool completely on the baking sheet. This step is crucial to prevent sogginess and maintain the crisp graham cracker layer.
- Step 2: Once cooled, add the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows as directed, but skip the broiling step if preparing more than a few hours ahead. Instead, cover the assembled treat loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate it immediately to preserve freshness.
- Step 3: For optimal results, broil the toppings just before serving to achieve that perfect gooey marshmallow finish and melted chocolate appeal.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to keeping our S’mores Crack fresh and flavorful. Below is a breakdown of storage options and their durations:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to retain crunch; avoid humid environments to prevent softening. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use an airtight container; this helps maintain the toffee layer’s snap but may slightly firm the marshmallows. |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before broiling. |
Reheating and Serving Tips
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the refrigerated or thawed treat for 5-7 minutes until the marshmallows begin to puff and brown.
- For a quick refresh, use the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning and ensure even melting of the chocolate.
- Always let it cool for 5 minutes after reheating to enhance the crisp contrast against the soft centers, making it perfect for sharing.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this S’mores Crack recipe to bring joy and ease to your kitchen adventures. It’s a fun twist on a timeless treat that lets you savor those gooey chocolate moments without the fuss.
Next time you’re craving something sweet we’ll bet this becomes your go-to snack. Dive in and enjoy the magic—we know you’ll love sharing it as much as we do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is S’mores Crack?
S’mores Crack is a modern twist on the classic campfire treat, combining gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers into a shareable snack. It’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings, offering nostalgic flavors without needing a fire, and it’s easy to prepare for satisfying sweet cravings.
What ingredients are needed for S’mores Crack?
Key ingredients include crushed graham crackers for the base, unsalted butter and brown sugar for a toffee layer, semi-sweet chocolate chips for rich flavor, and mini marshmallows for gooey texture. Optional add-ins like chopped nuts provide extra crunch, ensuring a simple, comforting treat.
What equipment is required to make S’mores Crack?
You’ll need a rimmed baking sheet for spreading, parchment paper or foil for cleanup, a saucepan for melting butter and sugar, a mixing bowl, spatula or spoon for stirring, measuring cups and spoons, and an oven preheated to 350°F. These tools make preparation straightforward and efficient.
How do I make S’mores Crack?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet. Melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan, mix in crushed graham crackers, and bake until golden. Add chocolate chips and marshmallows on top, then broil for a gooey finish. Cool completely before cutting into pieces for serving.
Can I make S’mores Crack ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare S’mores Crack up to 24 hours in advance. After baking the base and adding toppings, cool it fully and refrigerate. This keeps the texture intact, making it convenient for events without losing the gooey and crunchy balance.
How should I store S’mores Crack?
Store S’mores Crack at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore its gooey texture before serving.